United States President Donald Trump said that Iran must stop financing Hezbollah in order to secure a permanent ceasefire agreement with the United States. Speaking in the Oval Office after hosting a second round of ambassador-level negotiations between Israel and Lebanon, Trump made clear that ending Iran’s financial support for the group is a necessary condition for any deal.

Recent discussions with Iran have primarily focused on its nuclear program, while Tehran has resisted efforts to broaden the talks to include its backing of regional proxy groups. Trump’s remarks signal a push to link broader regional security concerns to ongoing diplomatic efforts.

When asked about the prospects of a peace agreement between Israel and Lebanon this year, Trump said there is a strong possibility that the two countries could reach a deal.